Vintage Asbestos Millboard picture by Asbestorama at http://www.flickr.com/photos/asbestos_pix/4310329981/in/set-72157614455320652/

Asbestos Warning

Asbestos is a natural mineral fiber known to cause cancer when inhaled. Never dust, sweep, or vacuum anything that may contain asbestos.

Because asbestos is so dangerous, make sure to follow all the instructions below.

Friable asbestos is easily broken up into smaller pieces and can be very dangerous. It may be found in old popcorn ceilings, textured paints, acoustical spray-on ceilings, pipe insulation, and the millboard pictured above. Read more about asbestos on the EPA‘s website.

Why care about asbestos?

Exposure to asbestos is the only known cause for the rare cancer mesothelioma which affects the protective lining of the lungs, abdomen, and some of the body’s other internal organs.

Not sure if it is asbestos?

If you are unsure if a product contains asbestos, take a look at our Asbestos Testing page for a list of resources to help you find out.

Get a Pro to Clean Up

There are several businesses that will do the removal of asbestos to help you get rid of the material safely. Take a look at our Abestos Removal page for more information.

Important Disposal Instructions

  • Improperly packaged asbestos, including bags with holes or tears, or bags over the allowed weight limit, will not be accepted.
  • Asbestos-containing materials must be double-bagged and sealed in thick 6-millimeter bags that state they contain asbestos. Normal trash bags or other containers are not acceptable.
  • Free asbestos bags are available from the Resource Recovery & Waste Management Division office or the Community Hazardous Waste Collection Center (CHWCC) for homeowners doing their own abatement. Call (805) 882-3602 to obtain a supply of bags.
  • Each bag must weigh no more than 25 pounds.
  • A maximum of 50 pounds (about two bags) is accepted for free per trip from households at the CHWCC.
  • If you need to dispose of asbestos at the Tajiguas Landfill, download our permit application for further instructions.

Business Instructions

  • Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District (APCD) enforces asbestos related air quality laws for demolition and renovation of all business structures and apartment buildings with more than four units.
  • Advanced notification to the APCD may be required before removing asbestos.
  • Contact the APCD at (805) 961-8800 or visit the APCD website if you have questions.

Where to go

Related Materials

Related Articles